Assistant Estimator

Job Title: Assistant Estimator

Location: Manchester, UK (projects nationwide)

Salary: Up to £37,000

About the Company

Our client is a well-established main contractor with over 15 years of experience delivering maintenance and insurance claim projects across the UK. The business has evolved significantly, expanding into heritage works and education projects, with a strong pipeline of summer refurbishment schemes.

With a turnover of £15 million last year and ambitious plans for continued growth, the company is now focusing on securing larger, more complex projects, targeting higher-value opportunities with a more strategic and selective tendering approach.

Project values currently range from £10,000 to £15 million across multiple sectors.

The Role

Due to continued growth, our client is seeking an Estimator or Assistant Estimator to join their commercial team, reporting directly to the Commercial Manager.

This is a fantastic opportunity for either:

• An Assistant Estimator looking to develop within a supportive environment and gain exposure to a wide range of projects, or

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed and competitive cost estimates for a variety of construction projects
• Analyse tender documentation, drawings, and specifications
• Assist with the full tendering process from enquiry through to submission
• Obtain and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations
• Identify risks, opportunities, and value engineering options
• Collaborate closely with the commercial and operational teams
• Support business strategy by targeting larger, higher-value projects

Key Requirements

• Previous experience in an estimating role within a main contractor environment
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and pricing
• Experience working across sectors such as maintenance, heritage, or education (desirable)
• Ability to manage multiple tenders and work to deadlines
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Proficiency in relevant estimating and Microsoft Office software

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to join a growing and evolving contractor
• Exposure to a diverse and expanding project portfolio
• Clear progression pathway, particularly for Assistant-level candidates
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Supportive team environment with direct mentorship from senior leadership